“You’re too jaded and really will become a nun if you keep pushing guys away. Especially one who seems to like you and obviously wants to be with you.”

“We’re clearly at two different places in our lives, so it’s for the best,” I say with certainty.

“Or…” Kenzie grabs the bottle out of my hand. “You could just communicate, tell him you overheard his conversation, and ask if he plans to go or not. That way, you aren’t making an irrational decision to end things and can choose together.”

I flash her a glare, curling my lip. “Who the hell are you, and what have you done with my sister?”

She blows out a breath, then rolls her eyes. “I’m just being reasonable because someone has to.”

Now that has me snorting. “Oh really? Do I need to bring up Grayson?”

Kenzie scowls, taking a gulp of the booze. “Shut the hell up.”

Her sudden change of tone has me bursting into laughter. “That’s what I thought.”

“Guess we’ll both become nuns,” she confirms.

“Fine with me. I don’t believe in love anymore anyway.” I grab the bottle from her and take another drink.

“Yes, you do,” she says, trying to reason with me. “You’re just scared.”

The whiskey goes to my head and makes me dizzy. Leaning against the headboard, I close my eyes. “Maybe you’re right.”

“Hope Mom and Dad didn’t want grandchildren.” Kenzie laughs as she rests her head on my shoulder.

“They know I’m working to get my catering business off the ground. What will your excuse be?” I tease.

“Focusing on my teaching career,” she says with a giggle.

“You’re already hired at Mom’s school.”

“Exactly, I need to let lesson plans and teaching on my own be the center of my attention. I don’t want to disappoint her or the students.”

I shrug. “Alright, that sounds like an excuse she’d buy.”

We both laugh, are tipsy, and finish watching this ridiculous movie. It’s just the kind of night I needed—to let loose, complain about my pathetic non-love life, and have my sister—my best friend—by my side.

Chapter Thirteen

GAVIN

Three weeks ago, Maize was in my arms, and we had another amazing night together—a night I’ll never forget.

Two weeks ago, she told me it was a mistake and to move on.